Detectives have launched investigations into the mysterious death of a Voi-based teacher, Albert Ojwang, who died in police custody shortly after his arrest over a social media post.
Ojwang was reportedly arrested on Saturday in Migori town, where he had travelled to visit family. Police claim the arrest was in connection to a “derogatory” post made on X (formerly Twitter), raising concerns over a possible crackdown on digital speech.
Authorities say Ojwang was transported to Nairobi for questioning and later found with severe head injuries in a police cell. According to Nairobi Central Police boss Stephen Okal, Ojwang allegedly attempted suicide while alone in the cell.
“He had injured himself in the head. He was rushed to the hospital, where he unfortunately died. He did not die in our custody,” Okal stated.
The teacher’s body was transferred to the mortuary pending a post-mortem examination. His family has been notified and is expected to be present during the autopsy.
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has joined the investigation, amid mounting public pressure for transparency and accountability in custodial deaths.
Ojwang’s death comes against the backdrop of increasing concern over state responses to online criticism, particularly during recent political demonstrations.
